Student Services and Support Information

Medical Requirements

All part- or full-time international students on a visa studying at the ELI must complete four medical requirements and all non-international students studying at the ELI must complete the MMR vaccination requirement.

Chest X-rays

All international students must provide proof of tuberculosis screening with a chest X-ray. The X-ray must be performed and read by a U.S.-licensed physician, and it must be performed in the United States not more than six weeks prior to the first day of class. The MSU Longest Student Health Center will verify documentation. An appointment will be made for students needing X-rays before classes begin.

IGRA Test

All international students must provide proof of tuberculosis screening with the Interferon Gamma Release Assays (IGRA) test. The IGRA test must be performed by a U.S.-licensed physician to confirm negative indications for tuberculosis, and it must be performed in the United States not more than six weeks prior to the first day of class. The MSU Longest Student Health Center will verify documentation. An appointment will be made for students needing the IGRA test before classes begin.

MMR Vaccinations

All students will receive their first MMR vaccination on campus, along with their chest X-rays and IGRA test, unless they can provide proof they have been vaccinated before arriving on campus. Students who have had the vaccinations need to bring the completed immunization form as proof. An appointment will be made for students needing the IGRA test before classes begin. Click here for more information about the MMR vaccination.

Health Insurance

Mississippi State University requires health insurance for all international students. All ELI international students must sign up and pay for the MSU Student Health Insurance plan before they begin classes and then before the start of each semester they are enrolled in the ELI. The cost of insurance will automatically be added to their ELI invoice. If a student’s spouse and children accompany them, health insurance for them is highly recommended but not required.

Contact Information

Mission Statement

The International Institute enriches and expands the academic and cultural experiences of faculty, staff, students, and the community through global outreach, research, academic programs, and international student services.